Water Safety

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Brush up on your local knowledge for your safety.

We would urge anyone planning a visit to the coast to follow RNLI safety advice: 

• Take care near cliffs - know your route and your limitations.

• Know and understand the Bembridge Ledge as this catches many people out.

• Have a plan - check the weather forecast and tide times.

• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float.

•  If individuals are choosing to go sailing or yachting it is important to ensure that equipment is properly checked and serviceable before going afloat.

• In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Local Knowledge

North-easterly facing, sea wall promenade, short sandy belt above the rocky pools and ledges to low water mark, A popular beach with private beach huts.

Emergency equipment

There is an Emergency Telephone and Defibrillator (AED) on the wall adjacent to the Lifeboat Shop entrance.

On the Beach

- The tide runs fast on both sides of the Lifeboat Pier on either side of high tide. 

- Do watch out on low tides so that you are not cut off on the Ledges by the incoming tides.

- The Ledges can be slippery.

- Big drops from the promenade walls.

In the Water

- Offshore winds can blow you or an inflatable toy out to sea. Don’t use them in offshore winds!

- Keep clear of manmade structures like piers or groynes.

- Keep clear of other water users – swimmers and powerboats don’t mix.

Calling for help

If you or anyone you see are in trouble:

Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. They will get help to you quickly.